As winter approaches and touring season winds down, your motorhome deserves a little extra care before hibernation. Cold temperatures, damp air, and prolonged inactivity can all take a toll on paintwork, seals, and electrics.
Preparing your motorhome correctly will protect it from frost, moisture, and UV damage, saving you time, money, and frustration when spring returns.
At UK Custom Covers, we design breathable, waterproof motorhome covers and top covers that help owners across the UK store their vehicles safely all year round.
1) Clean and Dry Thoroughly Before Storage
A clean motorhome is a protected motorhome. Dirt, road salt, and organic residue can trap moisture and cause corrosion.
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Wash the exterior, including the roof, wheel arches, and underbody.
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Use pH-neutral shampoo or a dedicated caravan/motorhome cleaner — avoid harsh detergents.
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Rinse and dry completely using microfibre cloths or a silicone squeegee to prevent water spots.
Pro tip: Apply a protective wax or ceramic sealant after cleaning to help paintwork resist grime and frost through winter.
2) Protect the Roof – Your First Line of Defence
The roof is the most exposed area of any motorhome. Tree sap, bird droppings, and frost can permanently stain panels and damage skylights.
Fitting a Motorhome Top Cover shields the roof from debris and UV exposure while still allowing the sides to breathe. Its lightweight 150 D polyester fabric makes it quick to fit — perfect if you park on your drive or under trees.
3) Fit a Breathable Full Motorhome Cover
For long-term or outdoor winter storage, a full-body cover provides complete protection from rain, frost, and pollutants.
Our Motorhome Covers (Grey) are made from 4-ply non-woven fabric with PU coating, combining waterproofing with breathability. Moisture can escape, but rain stays out — preventing mould, mildew, and condensation.
Benefits of using a full cover:
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Prevents paint fade and seal cracking
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Keeps your motorhome cleaner for longer
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Reduces interior damp and frost buildup
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Minimises maintenance before next season
If your vehicle has a cab hump or roof accessories, order one size larger for an ideal fit.
4) Check Seals, Windows, and Doors
Inspect all rubber seals and hinges before covering:
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Apply a silicone-based lubricant to door and window seals to prevent sticking or cracking.
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Lightly coat metal hinges and locks to protect against rust.
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Leave roof vents slightly open if stored under a breathable cover to maintain airflow.
This small step keeps damp and musty odours away.
5) Look After the Tyres and Suspension
Cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop and flat spots to form.
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Inflate tyres to manufacturer-recommended PSI.
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Move the vehicle slightly every few weeks to vary contact points.
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If stored for months, consider axle stands or tyre savers.
While checking tyres, also release the handbrake and use chocks instead — this prevents brake-shoe binding.
6) Disconnect and Maintain the Battery
Modern leisure batteries can drain quickly in cold weather. Disconnect the vehicle and habitation batteries or use a smart trickle charger to maintain voltage.
If possible, remove them completely and store in a frost-free, ventilated location.
7) Keep the Interior Fresh and Dry
A little preparation inside goes a long way:
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Remove all food, perishables, and fabrics that may absorb moisture.
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Use moisture traps or silica gel packs to prevent damp.
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Leave cupboards and lockers open for airflow.
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Empty the fridge and prop the door slightly open.
This prevents mildew and unpleasant smells during long storage periods.
8) Cover or Remove External Accessories
Awnings, bike racks, and external fittings can trap water. Remove what you can and ensure everything else is secured and clean. If left in place, cover with breathable material.
9) Choose the Right Location
If possible, store your motorhome on level ground with good drainage. Avoid long periods under trees where sap and falling debris accumulate.
If parking outdoors, use wheel covers or place wooden boards under tyres to reduce moisture transfer from the ground.
Ready for Winter?
Proper storage doesn’t just protect your investment — it saves time and repair costs when the new season begins.
Whether you prefer a lightweight roof protector or complete all-over coverage, UK Custom Covers has the right solution:
You can also browse our Motorhome Accessories and Motorhome Seat Covers for extra comfort and protection during every season here at UK Custom Covers.
